CLOSE TO NORTHUMBERLAND National Park
and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty, the small town of Haltwhistle is
perfect for history buffs and hillwalkers alike.
Hadrian’s Wall is a short walk away, accessed via
the Haltwhistle Burn Footpath. For those not as
eager to explore Roman history, there are plenty
of places to ramble elsewhere in the surrounding
North Pennines. Head to Pike Rigg and Whitfield
Lough to the south, or enjoy a beautiful walk along
the River South Tyne to the Lambley Viaduct.
Gentler options include a ramble around Bellister
Castle, or a walk over Broomhouse Common for
spectacular views of the Tyne Valley. Or try the
‘Haltwhistle Rings’: 22 circular walks in and around
the town, ranging from two-milers to 12-mile hikes.
Haltwhistle also boasts a variety of year-round
attractions and events. Three castles are nearby:
the ruinous Thirlwall, the ancient Blenkinsopp (with
a popular inn and restaurant) and the allegedly
haunted Bellister. The town hosts a popular walking
festival twice a year, with this year’s Spring festival
taking place from 27 April 27 to 6 May. While
you're there, check out Mr George’s Museum of
Time, which has a unique collection of clocks from
the 19th and 20th Centuries.
Haltwhistle has a vibrant (and violent!) history
beyond its Roman roots, so it’s worth doing your
research to get the most out of your visit.WALK
HERE- BIRDOSWALD
ROMAN FORT
Exercise your mind and your
legs on a 16-mile round trip
from the heart of Haltwhistle
to Birdoswald Roman Fort,
one of the more popular
features of Hadrian’s Wall.
The trail will take you through
the charming Walltown. - HALTWHISTLE BURN
Enjoy a gentle 6-miler in the
valley beside the Haltwhistle
Burn. Follow the trail south
for spectacular views of the
South Tyne Valley. Close to
the burn it’s quite marshy,
so caution is needed.
See visithaltwhistle.com
Photo: Michael Conrad/ShutterstockHadrian's Wall
at sunsetHALTWHISTLE
THE SELF-PROCLAIMED ‘CENTRE OF BRITAIN’, HALTWHISTLE IS
ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR GATEWAYS TO HADRIAN’S WALLWALKERS'
GUIDESTAY Budget: The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall
Youth Hostel
Renowned for its friendly atmosphere,
budget breakfasts and charming rooms.
Features a café and a museum, making it
easy to get your money’s worth.
yha.org.uk
Mid-range: Centre of Britain Hotel
With parts of the building dating back the
15th Century, it’s perfect for those with an
interest in the local history of Haltwhistle.
centreofbritain.co.uk
Splurge: Ashcroft Guesthouse
Surrounded by two acres of peaceful
gardens and boasting lavishly furnished
rooms, this is the perfect place to enjoy
all Haltwhistle has to offer in style.
ashcroftguesthouse.co.uk
E AT Jethro’s A homely, quirky café
providing comforting, home-made food.
Vegetarian friendly.
facebook.com/jethroshaltwhistle
DRINK The Black Bull The oldest Inn
in Haltwhistle. With its large open ire and
traditional décor, it’s the perfect place for a
proper English pub experience.
theblackbullhaltwhistle.co.uk
TRAVEL Trains from Carlisle and
Newcastle Central run regularly to
Haltwhistle. The AD122 Bus service via
Hadrian’s Wall (from 19 April - 29 September
in 2019) is one of the most popular ways to
access Haltwhistle in summer.
DID YOU KNOW? Holy Cross
Church in Haltwhistle is one of the few
early 13th Century churches still
functioning in England.14 The Great Outdoors Spring 2019ALMANAC